91mpg Porsche Panamera plug-in hybrid

The Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid is set to create an impressive benchmark in efficiency for the sports car manufacturer, with claimed fuel economy of 91mpg.

The 410bhp Panamera will emit just 71g/km of CO2, despite having a 0-62mph time of 5.5 seconds – half a second quicker than the standard Panamera hybrid.

It is powered by a 94bhp electric motor and a new 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine that produces a combined power output of 410bhp.

The lithium-ion battery is capable of powering the car for 22 miles on electric power, alone. Recharging the battery takes around two and a half hours through a fast-charge unit, while using a domestic socket takes less than four hours.

A top speed of 84mph is possible under electric power alone, although this increases to 168mph when the V6 engine kicks in. As well as allowing emission-free driving for short distances, the electric motor also acts as a boost function to aid overtaking.

The arrival of the Panamera S E-Hybrid also heralds a new look and a new engine for the luxury saloon. A twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine replaces the 4.8-litre V8 unit from the Panamera S and Panamera 4S. It offers 20bhp more than the previous unit, boosting output to 420bhp. Final performance and economy figures are yet to be confirmed, but Porsche claims that the V6 will use 18% less fuel than the outgoing V8.

The face-lifted car comes with larger air intakes at the front, a more 'swept-back' rear window and a new tailgate with a wider spoiler. It also has LED headlights and there's more optional safety equipment, such as emergency braking assistance and traffic sign recognition.

Prices for the face-lifted Panamera haven't been confirmed, although they're expected to rise by around 3% across the range, bringing the entry-level price up from £60,272 to around £62,000. The plug-in hybrid is expected to cost around £95,000.